Scientists find evidence ancient humans ate Neanderthal children

Researchers analysed bones from the Goyet cave and report that six Neanderthal individuals — mainly women and children — show marks interpreted as consistent with cannibalism around 45,000 years ago.

Researchers report that bones from the Goyet caves in Belgium show evidence interpreted as cannibalism dated to about 45,000 years ago. The remains examined include four adult or adolescent females and two young males. The team used genetic, isotope and morphological analyses to build a biological profile of the victims. Goyet is a long-studied Neanderthal site in northern Europe and has previously yielded material with similar butchery marks. Key findings: - Six Neanderthal individuals were identified: four adult/adolescent females and two male children. - The material is dated to about 45,000 years ago according to the study. - Bones show cut marks, notches and fractures that the authors interpret as consistent with processing and marrow extraction. - Genetic and isotope evidence suggests the four female victims were not local to the Goyet area. - The authors emphasise the selective demographic profile and link it to possible inter-group conflict; they favour a Neanderthal-on-Neanderthal explanation but do not rule out Homo sapiens involvement. - Some fragmented bones appear to have been used to retouch stone tools, a practice documented in Neanderthal contexts. Summary: The study presents evidence that non-local Neanderthal women and children were brought to Goyet and show marks consistent with being processed for consumption, which the authors interpret as likely related to inter-group conflict in the late Middle Paleolithic. The identity of the cannibals remains uncertain; the research team leans toward Neanderthal perpetrators but acknowledges that Homo sapiens cannot be entirely excluded. Undetermined at this time.